2002 Toyota Camry named most washable car

April 29, 2002 BY ED GARSTEN ASSOCIATED PRESS

DETROIT -- Between the whirling brushes, screaming streams of scorching water, fruity-smelling hot wax and tornado-strength air driers, the modern car wash can seem to be a perilous and uncertain journey.

For the vehicle that can escape those multiple tortures with all of its mirrors, wheel covers and wipers intact, there is, in fact, proper recognition: The International Carwash Association Most Washable Car award.

This year's winner is the 2002 Toyota Camry, which not only met the stringent judging criteria for design, but simply made it out of the car wash without a scratch.

The Camry was noted for its smooth, aerodynamic design, which resists catching and retaining dirt, securely fastened mirrors, bumpers and wipers, retractable side view mirrors and rear window wipers and moldings that do not protrude.

"Toyota across the board, does pay attention to the washability of its cars," said Toyota Motor Co. spokeswoman Holly Ferris in an interview Friday.

One design revision was made to a rail that runs the length of its vehicles underneath the doors.

"The rail was sharp and hands and towels were being cut, so we made sure the metal was smooth," said Ferris.

The car wash industry has also been working to increase the survivability rate for vehicles.

"We're constantly working with engineers in Detroit and elsewhere on designing cars with smooth lines, aerodynamic designs and not a lot of exposed images," said Mark Thorsby, executive director of the International Carwash Association.

"Between robotics and modern technology, we can virtually assure a vehicle can be safely washed without damage," Thorsby said.

Those who have driven into a car wash with a spare tire cover and driven out without it may beg to differ, but Thorsby says those types of accessories, as well as luggage racks and items installed by the owner can pose challenges.

"A car wash needs to be able to make adjustments," he said.

Sure enough, Thorsby says with the popularity of giant SUVs, new car washes will be built taller and wider to accommodate them so that those vehicles that cost a lot of scratch, won't suffer any.